Whether it’s after a hot pilates class or I’m rushing to meet a deadline, I love a good protein bar to hold me over until I can get to my next full meal. I feel energized, full, and happy to be eating something that’s both healthy and delicious. (There are even some I’d eat for the taste alone—they’re that good). And in the era of the current protein craze, these bars have never been more popular.

Protein bars, as Samantha Dieras, RD, DCN, director of ambulatory nutrition services at Mount Sinai, explains, are portable snacks that have a high concentration of protein and other important nutrients. In theory, all protein bars should be a one-and-done deal in the health department—aka made of protein sources like whey, soy, or nuts, with added carbohydrates, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals—but that’s not always the case. Here are some things to consider.

Are protein bars healthy?

The short answer to this is: Yes, protein bars can be healthy. But just like many foods, you have to look at what it’s made of if you want to know that it’s good for you. “It depends on the brand and how you use them,” says registered dietitian nutritionist Lauren Manaker. “A bar with quality ingredients, balanced macros, and minimal sugar can be a great addition to your diet. However, some bars are more like candy bars in disguise. So it’s important to read the label.”

“[Some] will have the nutritional profile of a Snickers Bar,” says Dieras. “It may be delicious, but inhibiting you from achieving your goals, instead of helping.”

Is it okay to eat a protein bar every day?

The good news is you can eat a protein bar every day if that’s how you’re living your life. While Dieras says that your primary source of protein should always be through whole foods, she says that protein bars can be helpful for those looking for a high-protein diet but may not be able to reach their protein goals with food alone.

They also make for a healthy option when you’re hungry in between meals. “Protein bars can be a great option when you’re on the go or need a quick, balanced snack,” says Manaker. “However, they shouldn’t replace whole, nutrient-dense meals regularly. Think of them as a supplement to your diet, not the foundation.”